Steven Eash had a dream to own his own business someday. He had a good job working in a factory like many of his neighbors, but his creativity and ambition were pushing him in another direction.
That’s when he discovered polymer.
Steven owns Heartland Polymer Cabinets in Topeka, where he and his employees create handcrafted cabinets that are versatile, durable and stylish. These cabinets defy the elements outside while also providing attractive and sturdy storage inside.
As a young adult, Steven became fascinated with polymer and ordered material to create some wagons as an experiment. He purchased three steel frames to build three different wagons with removable racks on the sides. He sold one and kept the others for use on his property, including one that was designed to be pulled by a pony.
Through that experience, he realized the applications of the material seemed endless, and he began researching uses for it. Then, when he learned that Heartland Polymer Cabinets was for sale about 18 months ago, it seemed like the perfect fit.
The company was an established business when Steven bought it, but he is making it his own, with adjustments to increase efficiency and provide additional options for customers. He is always looking for fresh solutions to improve the product, including invisible welds and color options for cabinet interiors.
He wanted a business of his own for two important reasons: to offer high-quality products at fair prices and to provide a good working environment and fair wages for people in area communities. So far, so good. Even Steven’s young children are involved, helping out in small ways already. He hopes they will want to stay engaged in the business when they are a bit older.
The polymer material is a nonporous recycled plastic that is water-, UV-, mold- and scratch-resistant, making the cabinets a great fit for exterior spaces such as decks, garages and poolside settings. But Steven emphasizes that they can also fit seamlessly in interior settings, like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, family rooms, basements, offices and industrial spaces. Commercial applications can include healthcare settings, schools and fabrication facilities, among others.
Eash said, “This is an ‘anywhere cabinet.’ Between the strength of the material and the way they are produced, they will hold up outdoors or indoors and still look attractive years later.” With a standard line of cabinets as well as custom solutions, customers have 12 colors and 12 wood grain choices to choose from, as well as style and hardware options.
Designing custom solutions is where Steven shines. He loves the challenge of bringing a vision to life, collaborating along the way. Once he discusses the idea and sees the project space, he will suggest a creative solution for the type of space and functionality needed. He said, “The product still fascinates me … there are unlimited possibilities for what to do with it.”
A customer recently asked him to design and create rolling desks for use in a warehouse. The result was standing desks on wheels, complete with space for an office phone, drawers, doors and a raised shelf for more workspace. Other recent custom projects include a bookcase with a cabinet base and a portable grill cabinet.
Steven’s goals are clear. He said, “Our number one priority is to build a quality cabinet that meets customer needs and functions well for years to come. We work hard to connect with people and provide a good experience working with and for Heartland.”
Heartland’s reputation for quality and reliability in the area is growing, as well as with distributors outside of Indiana. One customer said, “The quality of the product attracted me, and the price was great. Heartland was easy to work with to make our custom piece.”
Looking to the future, Steven plans to grow Heartland Polymer Cabinets beyond the local area, particularly by working with more building contractors. He hopes to introduce the many benefits of polymer cabinets to a wider audience, highlighting their versatility and practicality for both outdoor and indoor use. And as the company grows, he will also be able to employ more people in the community.
Steven’s dream is well on its way, and the potential for the future? Unlimited.
Heartland Polymer Cabinets is located at 8200 W. 700 S., Topeka. You can call the company at 260-593-3101 or visit online at heartlandpolymercabinets.com.
